Notts: Get involved with war themed sewing artwork

Members of the armed forces past and present are being acknowledged through a unique sewing project.

As the country commemorates the centenary of World War I, the art of sewing is a fitting method to remember military personnel as both men and women used to sew regularly. Clothes used to be repaired at home and in the trenches, embroided messages were sent to loved ones and bandages were sewed.

People are being asked to take part in the piece of artwork by hand sewing names onto a strip of cotton tape which will become part of an artwork on canvas depicting a pair of military boots.

Artist Joy Pitts has been commissioned by Notts County Council to lead the project.

She said: “This is a unique opportunity for families to participate in an artwork whilst also remembering members of the Armed Forces.”

“The sewing activity provides a very personal contribution and a sense of ownership over the work.”

She added: “Members of The War Widows Association and the Royal British Legion have been happy to participate and cannot wait to return to search the canvas for their hand sewn contribution.”

Joy’s art mainly uses labels gathered from garments which she uses as a palette by pinning then onto stretches canvas to create images.

Over the last 15 years it is predicted that Joy has used around 30,000 labels. Her most recent work is assembled from new woven labels, including a piece commissioned by designer Paul Smith called ‘Red Rabbit’.

Her latest portrait has recently been exhibited as part of the 2014 Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in London.

To take part, request a stitch pack by entering you details on the contact page of Joy’s website www.joypitts.co.uk/contact.php. Packs will be posted and include a SAE for return to Joy.

You can view the work whilst it’s in progress on Sunday 5th October from 2-4pm at the Rufford Craft Centre near Ollerton.